The German Book Prize began as a springboard for German-language authors. It is an annual book event, inspired by the incredibly successful Man Booker Prize and the Prix Goncourt. But can diverse literature really pit one title against another – family novels for the masses versus books of literary acrobatics, contemporary historical tomes against intimate family portraits?
What are the criteria when it comes to selecting the best from among many good books? That is the question tackled by jurors and literary critics every year – and they seldom agree. They read and debate, and in the end there is a winner who enjoys dream sales and international attention. Is the German Book Prize a literary distinction or an ingenious marketing idea? Perhaps both.
What makes a book prize-worthy
Everything you need to know about the German Book Prize. In this article from DW, you’ll meet the first winner, literary critics and publishers. They also take a close look at the promising new novels that are in the running for this year’s award.
Source: What makes a book prize-worthy? | German Book Prize | DW | 04.10.2016
